Mercedes has announced convertible versions of the AMG GT known as the AMG GT Roadster and the faster, more lairy AMG GT C Roadster.
The Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster is based on the AMG GT R and shares the same twin-turbo V8, rear-wheel drive layout and seven-speed DCT automatic, but features structural reinforcement in various areas to increase rigidity and strength.
Obviously the lack of a roof is the most noticeable addition. The fabric replacement opens and closes in around 11 seconds and will do at up to 31mph. It comes in a choice of black, red or beige to compliment 11 exterior paint jobs and ten interior colours.
Opt for the 1,670kg AMG GT Roadster and 0-62mph takes four seconds, while the top speed is 302km/h (187.6mph) if you give the 476hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with 630Nm of torque long enough.
Those who really crave open-top insanity will want the AMG GT C Roadster, which has the same engine but tuned to 557hp and 680Nm of torque. 0-62mph drops to 3.7 seconds, while CO2 emissions increase from 219g/km to 259g/km. Top speed is 316km/h (196mph).
There are a few other differences between the AMG GT Roadster and its C sibling. Both get a locking differential but the roadster has to settle for a mechanical setup while the AMG GT C Roadster has an electronically controlled variant.
Then there is the exhaust, which on the AMG GT C Roadster is of the AMG Performance variety and significantly louder or quieter, depending on how you set the exhaust flaps. The interior is also 57mm wider, putting it on a par with the AMG GT R.
A Nappa leather interior, AMG Performance steering wheel, race mode, lighter lithium-ion battery, variable dampers and rear-wheel steering are also included – all helping make it 65kg heavier.
“With our two Roadster models, we are strategically expanding the AMG GT family by two exciting variants, Mercedes-AMG chairman Tobias Moers said. “With the AMG GT C Roadster, we are also introducing a new model variant to which we have transferred main performance-related components from our top sports car, the AMG GT R.
“The result: A highly dynamic driving experience in a very exclusive ambience, coupled with that pure roadster feeling,” he added.
Both the AMG GT Roadster and AMG GT C Roadster will be on display at the Paris Motor Show 2016 – here is our round-up of what else to expect from the French car gathering.
No word on a price just yet, but it is extremely likely you will be paying more than the £97,210 GT Coupe and £110,510 for the GT S Coupe.
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